Star Wars The Old Republic free to play opens the Jedi and Sith stories to everyone without an upfront cost. This transition keeps the core narrative while adjusting progression and monetization for new and returning players.
Below is a quick reference for how the free-to-play model shapes your first hours, class options, and long-term goals.
| Access Type | What You Get | Limitations | Pacing and Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free-to-play | Level 1-50 story on all classes, PvP worlds, Galactic Trade Network access | Level and credit caps, restricted endgame queues, limited inventory | Complete class stories, earn gear, prepare for subscription or preferred status |
| Preferred Status | Higher level cap, weekly credits, more story, crafting unlocks | sub>Ongoing subscription or preferred purchase required | Smooth path to max level and full gear progression |
| Active Subscribers | Full level cap, all abilities, fleet bonuses, legacy rewards | None beyond normal game rules | Endgame content, operations, crafting, and roleplay at scale |
| New Player Onboarding | Class missions, story cinematics, starter gear, tutorial zones | Short restrictions on high-end operations | Quick ramp to preferred status through gameplay and store |
Getting Started in the Free Tier
New accounts enter the galaxy at level 1 with immediate access to Tatooine and Coruscant starter zones. You can choose from the classic classes and experience their signature stories up to level 50 at no initial cost.
During early levels, you earn gear from missions and vendors, which keeps the action smooth. Daily objectives and commendations provide credits and experience to help you advance without payment.
Class and Story Access Without Payment
Playable Classes in Free Mode
Each free class delivers a distinct narrative arc and set of companions. You can try tanks, healers, and damage dealers to see which mechanics fit your playstyle.
Leveling Experience and Choices
The class stories are designed to be complete up to the level cap. Choices in missions still matter, but some endgame paths remain locked until you reach preferred or subscriber status.
Pacing, Rewards, and Endgame Unlocks
Leveling from 1 to 50 in the free tier typically takes a few focused weeks of daily play. You earn gear drops, modifications, and companion gifts that keep your power steady while you decide on long-term goals.
The Galactic Trade Network in free-to-play lets you buy and sell basic materials, giving you a path to acquire gear credits through active participation in the player economy.
Long-Term Progression and Commitment Options
Your journey from free to preferred can follow multiple paths, and each choice affects your access to endgame gear and group content.
- Complete daily quests to earn credits and experience toward preferred unlocks
- Join flashpoints and warzones to gain gear and story insights before upgrading
- Track weekly goals in the galaxy map to maximize free rewards
- Consider preferred purchase when you are ready for full operations access
- Engage with the community to learn optimal routes for your chosen class
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I experience the entire class story for free?
Yes, you can complete the main class story from level 1 to 50 without paying, though some side content and higher-tier operations require preferred or subscriber status.
What restrictions does the free tier place on endgame content? Free accounts are limited in operations queues, flashpoints, and warzone participation, and they face level and item level gates until they reach preferred status. How do credits and the Galactic Trade Network work for free players?
You earn a small number of credits per day and can trade basic items on the Galactic Trade Network to build gear and fund your progression toward preferred unlocks.
What is the fastest way to reach preferred status from free?
Completing daily missions, story quests, and commendations earns experience and credits, accelerating your path to preferred status and removing many endgame caps.